The Ultimate Gift Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES
A life experience becomes a gift.
Some things are worth more than money.
Life is how you live it... not how you spend it.
Share the gift. Change the world.
Jason thought his inheritance was going to be the gift of money and lots of it. Was he ever in for a big surprise. Based on the best-selling book "The Ultimate Gift" by Jim Stovall, the story sends trust fund baby Jason Stevens on an improbable journey of discovery, having to answer the ultimate question: "What is the relationship between wealth and happiness?" Jason had a very simple relationship with his impossibly wealthy Grandfather, Howard "Red" Stevens. He hated him. No heart-to-heart talks, no warm fuzzies, just cold hard cash. So of course he figured that when Red died, the whole "reading of the will" thing would be another simple cash transaction, that his Grandfather's money would allow him to continue living in the lifestyle to which he had become accustomed. But what Red left him was anything but simple. Red instead devised a plan for Jason to experience a crash course on life. Twelve tasks, which Red calls "gifts," each challenging Jason in an improbable way, the accumulation of which would change him forever.
| Drew Fuller | Jason Stevens |
| James Garner | Red Stevens |
| Ali Hillis | Alexia |
| Abigail Breslin | Emily |
| Lee Meriwether | Miss Hastings |
| Brian Dennehy | Gus |
| Mircea Monroe | Caitlin |
| Donna Cherry | Sarah Stevens |
| D. David Morin | Jack Stephens |
| Rose Bianco | Bella |
| Robert Cannon | Farmhand |
| Caleb Chestnut | Young Jason |
| Bill Cobbs | Ted Hamilton |
| Tom Conder | Bum in the Park |
| Brian F. Durkin | Sarah's boyfriend |
| Michael O. Sajbel |
7.00 out of 10 (450 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Don't Pass This Little Film By
posted on 12 Jul 2009Jim 'You Don't Have to be Blind to See' Stovall is an inspirational writer who in 2001 published a little book by the name of THE ULTIMATE GIFT in which he transposed many of his motivational teachings into a novel form, a story of how a tape of a dying man can alter the life of a crassly money-centric young grandson leading him through trials and challenges to teach him the meaning of life. Now THE ULTIMATE GIFT comes to the screen/DVD and before making the groaning judgment that here is yet another insipid little tale about learning life's lessons and gaining some spirituality in the process, try watching this two hour traversal of well acted and well scripted (Cheryl McKay) and well directed (Michael O. Sajbel) input. There is a lot more to the film than the grinches might think! A wealthy man Red Stevens (James Garner) has amassed a fortune, turning his personal life into a shambles in the process and producing a family of greedy ruthless gluttons - with one exception: one son rebelled and lost his life to dreams despite the aspirations of the father. Red has just died and the will is read by Red's longtime partner and lawyer Ted (Bill Cobbs) and his devoted assistant Miss Hastings (Lee Meriwether): the family is outraged at the results of Red's division of his fortune and the one person who is left to learn of the will's content is Red's egocentric grandson Jason (Drew Fuller). Through a taped interview just prior to his death Red outlines the twelve lessons Jason must learn if he is to inherit anything. And here begins the episodic journey during which Jason learns about poverty, compassion, friends, death, and spirituality that changes Jason into a full human being and creates a character who gives back more than he gets.Along the way Jason encounters work-ethic Gus (Brian Dennehy), a little girl Emily dying from leukemia (Abigail Breslin) whose sharp wit and tongue manifest wisdom that leads to the bonding of Jason and Emily's mother Alexia (Ali Hillis), and host of other character actors in the various parts of the world where Jason's journey takes him. Yes, the plot is predictable, and yes, the tenor of the piece borders on soap opera at times, but the end result is an examination of life that is told with enough fine humor and realistic dialog that it works. If viewers pass by this DVD because they fear it is just another sappy lecture, they will miss the pleasure of entering the realm of tender communication delivered with style and sincerity. And we all need that, especially now...Grady Harp
Sappy, Pretentious, Insulting Moralistic Nonsense!
posted on 18 Jun 2009A vulgarly rich, arrogant, bitter old man (James Garner) records his last will, in which he taunts his children and grandson. Here's a man who, by his own account, has made and lost three fortunes, so he's an idiot. On top of that, his loving, warm parenting has resulted in children who are - gasp! - as avaricious and self-centered as he is. The theme of this farce is material wealth and the expenditure of effort make you a worthwhile person.If you want a good story about the redemption of a covetous, grasping old sinner, try - you guessed it - Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. But not the George C. Scott version - gaggg!
Need some direction in life? Watch this movie!
posted on 25 May 2009This movie teaches such important life lessons it should not be overlooked by anyone. It should be required viewing for anyone between 10 and 30 years old. The story line is strong and interesting but is only a vehicle teach the important qualities that will improve anyone who implements them. Don't get me wrong. This movie is not perfect. There's a few inconsistent leaps that do not make sense. However, it is right on target with it's main objective and that is to drive home these critical lessons that are guaranteed to improve your life. I have never seen a movie address so many qualities that are essential to living a full and abundant life. Don't miss this movie. Buy the DVD once it's out. Show it in your home to your kids and grandkids, and the neighbors kids then take it to church and show it to the kids there.
Really good, family values movie, and a good story.
posted on 15 May 2009We need more good family values movies. I really enjoyed this one, although some of the family clichés were a bit exaggerated.We learn quite quickly that Red Stevens (James Garner) is about to die and is video taping his instructions, but we don't know for whom. There is a large gathering for the reading of the will, and all are disappointed because the sons and daughters are money-grubbing selfish people. But mysteriously, he has a special message, on DVD, for his grandson Jason (Drew Fuller). The grandson who is headed in the same direction as the others, never having worked and living a spendthrift life on his endowment. We know his father died in unfortunate circumstances, but we don't know any details.The main story is devoted to the Jason character, he is given a series of 12 "gifts" by his deceased grandfather, and each is designed to teach him a valuable lesson about life and giving back to the people you value.Ali Hillis is good as Alexia, whom Jason meets quite accidentally in the park in Charlotte, NC, when her young daughter Emily (Abigail Breslin) approaches Jason.My wife and I enjoyed this movie very much. It isn't perfect (but which movie is??) but it has a good story and good family values.SPOILERS FOLLOW. The "gifts" work for Jason and he becomes a caring person who appreciates the value of hard work, and giving back to society. Emily had been in treatment for Lukemia, and did not survive. But Jason used his wealth and his grandfather's influence to begin construction on a $350Million complex called "Emily's Home" for families to live while the children were being treated for life-threatening illnesses. He also became head of all remaining corporations of his deceased grandfather, valued at near $2Billion.
Great story, not so great movie
posted on 07 May 2009The story is beautiful, even though for some reason the idea didn't seem very original to me (I think I have seen a similar movie before). But the idea of self discovery and improvement was still very good.What I didn't like, though, was the direction. I think the film itself was poor - poorly directed. I never got to relate to the characters, I never "got in" their situations, despite the fact that there are some circumstances that should rip your heart in two. The whole thing seemed to be a lot of different situations all pasted together rather than the flow of a whole story. I guess the book must have been much better.The movie is still worth watching.
One gift you'll want to take back
posted on 23 Apr 2009Based on the novel by Jim Stovall, "The Ultimate Gift" is a hunk of sentimental whimsy that's as apt to stimulate your gag reflex as your tear ducts or funny bone. It's strictly for those with a fondness for manipulative tearjerkers that aim to instill inspirational life lessons in their already beaten-down viewers.Jason Stevens (the un-charismatic Drew Fuller) is a spoiled, ne'er-do-well rich kid who learns the "true meaning of life" from his dead, zillionaire grandfather (the venerable James Garner) who has set up a series of values-instilling "tests" for the young man to pass before he can receive the hundred-million-dollar inheritance that has been earmarked for him in the old codger's will. In the heavily contrived screenplay, childhood leukemia, Latin American rebels and a bevy of overly-caricatured elitist snobs all get thrown into the mix - and not only is it all supposed to somehow fit together, but it's clear we're intended to get something worthwhile and meaningful out of the whole shebang as well. Actually, you'll probably find yourself wanting to throttle most of the characters in the movie, particularly the condescending, control-freak of a dead man (even from beyond the grave, he instructs Jason on how to live his life via videotapes he recorded before his death) and the two benignly smug partners he's instructed to carry on the business of soul-restoration in his absence. Even Abigail Breslin, of "Little Miss Sunshine" fame, ultimately sets the teeth on edge with her too-cutesy-by-half impersonation of a dying child.And just in case you somehow managed to miss the message that they have been pounding into your skull for nigh unto two full hours at this point, the filmmakers thoughtfully provide a recap of each of Jason's "gifts" as part of the closing credits."The Ultimate Gift" is one of those movies that exists solely to reduce its audience to a quivering mass of throat lumps and tears while making them feel good about themselves and the world around them at the same time. Unfortunately, it has all the grit and depth of one of those Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas-miracle tales that crop up on TV with alarming regularity every holiday season. Forget the Kleenex and pass out the insulin-filled syringes instead.
Little Miss Ray of Sunshine
posted on 19 Apr 2009Greetings again from the darkness. Another in the series of Christian message films, this one based on Jim Stovall's best selling book of the same name. With the overall look and feel of a Lifetime Channel movie, James Garner, Bill Cobbs and Lee Meriweither add enough class and talent to make it watchable and, at times, effective.Little known Drew Fuller stars as Jason, the spoiled, unappreciative grandson of the recently departed billionaire James Garner. Giving dysfunctional families everywhere an example of what can happen, Garner's family bickers and threatens lawsuits over his will and what they perceive as shortchanging of their fair share. Long estranged from his grandfather, Jason is certainly put out by the tests he is forced to endure for his unknown share of the estate. Of course, the tests are designed by Garner to teach Jason the real meaning of life and to help him find his lost soul.The best scenes of the film involve Abigail Breslin (so dynamic in "Little Miss Sunshine") as a dying girl who is very concerned about leaving her mother alone in the world. Breslin's character has a lot to do with Jason's meandering path to salvation.With the exception of Drew Fuller (who is a poor man's Robbie Benson) and most of the family, the cast does a pretty decent job of playing the script straight. Brian Dennehy, Cobbs and a radiant 72 yr old Lee Meriwether (Catwoman from the first "Batman" movie in the 60's and a former Miss America) are all solid in their support work and manage to boost the film just enough to prevent that slide into pure hokey muck.Not pretending to be anything but what it is, just know this is a message film and one designed to get us to look at ourselves.
Potentially a Great Movie
posted on 26 Mar 2009My reason for a 7 is easy. Whoever edited the video didn't have a clue what he was doing! I did better editing when I was 15, and that was with film, by hand! Seriously, this could easily be one of those "Classic" movies, all it needs is proper editing. The scene changes are so Klutzy, they are annoying! Stupid mistakes too! Like, Mr Hamilton holding the envelope, and the scene changes and Jason has it in his hand! Stupid stuff like that! There are a number of scenes in the movie just like that or worse. I have no idea who reviewed the movie within the company, but they must have been asleep! No professional would have accepted scene cuts like that. It ruins a really Great movie! The shame of it is, that no-one seems to care, and that's sad! Potentially a 10+ movie,John
Not so much...
posted on 26 Mar 2009The Ultimate Gift is FoxFaith's newest release (the makers of Thr3e, Love Comes Softly,and a few others)...It is the story of a young man, Jason, whose grandfather has just died. Jason's family is royally messed up, living up to the scripture when it says, "The love of money is the root of all evil." His grandfather, through a series of video messages, reveals to Jason that he has left him what he calls the "ultimate gift", but Jason must first complete a series of tasks to show his worthiness. The rest of the movie shows just that, Jason trying to successfully complete his deceased grandfather's list of commands and the consequent changes and relationships that journey brings him.There's nothing ground breaking here. The Ultimate Gift is a very mediocre movie. The story is one we've seen before...if you've seen the previews you could likely predict the outcome of this movie. The acting is very mediocre. The whole movie is just very...mediocre! That's all I can really say...if you like drama/chick flicks with a somewhat good moral, you might check this one out. I wouldn't suggest paying full price...It didn't have a real "message" as other much as other Christian movies I've seen recently. What it did have was a few curse words (h-ll,an abbreviation for "B-S", and "screw you" ) along with a few sexual comments and one particular scene where his mom answers her door scantily clad in lingerie.On a scale of 1 to 10, The Ultimate Gift, rates a:Overall:5.5 Artistic/Entertainment Content:3 Spiritual Content:4 Family Friendliness: 4
Inspirational antidote to loud, violent fare
posted on 06 Mar 2009I know, I know, it sounds a little corny and saccharin. That's what I used to think about the 1970s television series The Waltons, before I actually tuned in one night and became absolutely captivated by the adventures of John Boy, Mary Ellen, and the rest of that poor West Virginia mountain family in the Depression era. It's fitting to contrast cinematic dramas such as these with what I decried in so much modern fare with my previous review of Dark Knight.[1] So many movies, especially in theaters appealing to the young, are full of so much special-effects clatter they leave no room for human beings and a story worth telling....For my complete review of this movie and for other movie and book reviews, please visit my site TheCoffeeCoaster.com.Brian Wright Copyright 2008
a great book, even better movie
posted on 14 Feb 2009My company recently hosted a private premier of the movie in Oklahoma City. It is truly a heartwarming and touching movie, suitable for the entire family. Individuals should beware that the story does stray from the book, but it only serves to enhance the storyline. I can't wait until it's release to see it again. In reading previous postings, it is apparent that some have not in fact seen the film. The main character in the book is a nephew, in the movie he is a grandson. The trials are spelled out in the book as twelve gifts, while in the movie, you don't get a full understanding that there twelve until just before the credits are rolled. The book is a great story, the movie's storyline is even better.
Ultimate Gift Ultimately Average
posted on 12 Feb 2009The Ultimate Gift is a decent attempt at a moving film. Paraphrasing David White, with movies.go.com, this film most resembles a two hour Thanksgiving special episode of 7th Heaven. Coming from the newly spawned Fox Faith department of Fox Entertainment, this film has decent Christian messages and undertones.The story revolves around Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller) and the tasks he must complete to receive the inheritance of his grandfather, Red Stevens. (James Garner) Jason is, essentially, a whiny brat throughout the first third of the film. This could be partially attributed to Joe Fuller's less than stellar acting, but primarily, the culprit is the character himself. Inconsiderate and uncaring, he shows up to his grandfather's funeral unfashionably late and in a roaring hot rod. Through the gaining of twelve metaphorical gifts (work, money, friends, learning, problems, family, laughter, dreams, giving, gratitude, gift of a day and love) Jason 'sees the light' and changes his ways by the end of the film. The wonderful acting of Abigail Breslen (Emily) was certainly a high point of the film, perhaps the high point. Seeing her step out and embrace the bad weather of the funeral, in contrast to the grudging annoyance of two of Red's sons, made me smirk. Her portrayal of this spunky child dazzled me and made up for several of the numerous shortcomings.The movie had unfortunate drawbacks that stole from the overall mood of the film. The cinematography was severely lacking. The angles and pans failed to inspire me as they should. The editing and cuts were a few of the chief aspects that reminded me of 7th Heaven. The ending was overly sappy, and the actors handled it badly. Several of the plot points seemed to be empty filler, useless MacGuffins. A prime example is the Ecuador diversion. It seems to have been implemented solely to distract the viewer until the ending or to increase the viewing time. Overall the movie failed to live up to the potential provided by the critically acclaimed book. At best I see this movie as a made-for-TV Hallmark film. The 'nice' message is an all right moral, but doesn't justify a two hour film. Michael O. Sajbel fails to give the book the film adaptation it deserves, and it shows. Out of ten, I would rate it two for acting, four for direction, five for music, four for plot and eleven for Breslen. Overall, The Ultimate Gift receives a quite disappointing five out of ten.
An incredibly moving film
posted on 31 Jan 2009This movie is one of the most powerful and moving films I have ever seen. This is a movie that I would recommend to anyone, but especially families. It has a message about a young man who has to find out there is more to life then money, that being apart of a family who loves you is the most important thing in life. Finding the ultimate gift is like finding your place in the world, what are you here for? What is your purpose? There is an incredible amount of value in this message and it is something people of all ages can learn from. The acting of Abigail Breslin is yet again incredible, I think even better then Little Miss Sunshine, she completely steals the show. Brian Dennehy is very funny, and James Garner is wonderful as well. This movie has all the aspects of a great film; sure it's no Godfather, but its still and incredible flick. In my showing of the film people where laughing and crying the whole way through, Highly recommended.
Wow
posted on 27 Jan 2009I gave "The Ultimate Gift" a 9 out of 10, which is an unusually high rank for me, but I can't describe enough how pleasantly surprised I was with this effort. Knowing as I went into the film that it was a "Christian" story, I had placed a lower ceiling on my expectations. Not that being "Christian" means that a movie has to be bad - it just usually seems to be the case. Not so much here, however. There were just three or four times where I felt my muscles tighten up as I mentally prepared for emotional cheese, but to my delight, they managed to pull out of it every time without leaving my intelligence insulted. It was a fun and cute story with believable characters, and strong performances all around. It was clean enough that you could take the whole family to see it, yet interesting enough that the parents will not only stay awake, but you'll actually find yourself caught up in a sweet, and sometimes tear-jerking story about redemption, and the pursuit of true joy. Christian-themed films have come a long way, and I look forward to what the future holds as they continue to get better. At this point, it's safe to say that "The Ultimate Gift" is among the best in Christian films on the market today. Definitely worth checking out.
You will either cry or throw up
posted on 25 Jan 2009The Ultimate Gift is a film from Fox studio's Fox Faith division which produces only movies with evangelical Christian values. The message of this movie is obvious and there is no attempt at subtlety. Drew Fuller plays the spoiled grandson of deceased billionaire James Garner. At the will, Garner's videotape is shown and in it he gives Fuller 12 tasks to complete before he can gain his inheritance. So, this filthy rich bastard is made to dig post holes on a ranch and find one true friend, which he finds in little Abigail Breslin who is dying of leukemia. Along the way Fuller has to complete more tasks. In the end, he receives the inheritance but he has learned his lesson and some humility. Still, he inherits billions. The message of this film with its intertwining of money and religion is pretty warped. The acting is good from everyone although Breslin is annoying as a kid wise beyond her years. This film will either make you cry or make you throw-up depending upon your religious views.
Everyone Must See
posted on 21 Jan 2009This movie made me think, laugh, cry and most of all smile. Newcomers, Ali Hillis and Drew Fuller, did a magnificent job in the role of Alexia and Jason. I hope to see them both in more leading roles in the near future. Abigail B. is just brilliant. I love that child! Hats off to the entire cast. They were all perfect in their given roles. I know the film is based on a Christian novel, and being a Christian, I was glad to see a film of this caliber make it to the big screen. The message is clear, simple and one that we can all learn from...believer or not. Thanks to everyone involved in getting this film to the big screen. It was truly a touching and inspirational movie.
Warning: this is a Fox Faith film
posted on 13 Jan 2009I didn't even know there WAS a "Fox Faith" line of movies, but I will check from now on and avoid them. Of course, for those looking for Sunday School lessons at the movies should seek out "Fox Faith." I really hate to think that films are going to split between "Saw II" and "I Saw the Light." While this was a reasonably entertaining film in the "made for TV" sense, it was very religious and hierarchical. There were both overtly religious parts (a statue of Jesus, etc.) and the right-wing paternal-guidance aspect. Besides the religious aspect, there was the extreme heavy-handedness. If you didn't get the message about what the lessons were (what, were you getting more popcorn?), just stay through the credits. They are repeated, named, and illustrated with film clips.
Great family movie - finally!
posted on 28 Dec 2008Watched with our 3 kids: 16, 13, and 10 - and all of us enjoyed it. Wasn't really sure it would be good; we've been so disappointed in the past. Plus - have kids of such varying ages. Hadly any movie these days can please all of us. But, this movie had a good story, light romance, intriguing (could NOT necessarily guess what was next...). Had familiar acting faces of the past (James Garner; Lee Meriwether), plus some excellent newer actors we'd not seen before. Had a strong, clean, message. No violence. No car chase scenes. No nudity. Also, made you think: what might happen next? Also enjoyed the musical background - was a good compliment to the film. Great movie. What a relief, finally! Thumbs up!! Recommended.
Discovering a New Man
posted on 12 Dec 2008After the death of the oil tycoon Howard 'Red' Stevens (James Garner), his greedy family is gathered in the office of his lawyer, partner and friend Mr. Theophillis 'Ted' Hamilton (Bill Cobbs) and his associated Miss Hastings (Lee Meriwether) for reading the will. For his reckless and selfish grandson Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller), who hated him, Red assigns twelve apparently simple tasks called "gifts" – of work, money, friends, learning, problems, family, laughter, dreams, giving, gratitude, a day and love – challenging the playboy Jason to a journey of discoveries. When he meets the leukemic girl Emily (Abigail Breslin) and her mother Alexia (Ali Hillis), Jason changes his perspective of life and money, superseding the expectations of Red, improving and becoming a better man and receiving the ultimate gift from his wise grandfather.What a wonderful surprise "The Ultimate Gift" is! This simple little movie has a magnificent story of discoveries, friendship, family values, redemption and love, supported by awesome performances highlighting the girl Abigail Breslin, whose witty dialogs make the viewer laugh and cry. Do not pay attention in the bad reviews in IMDb, and you will see a pleasant movie with a beautiful message. My vote is eight.Title (Brazil): "O Presente" ("The Gift")
A rewarding treat
posted on 18 Jul 2009"The Ultimate Gift" stars James Garner, Brian Dennehy, Drew Fuller, Ali Hillis, and Oscar nominee Abigail Breslin, who recently starred as Olive in "Little Miss Sunshine," which also was nominated this year for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.This is the fourth film from Fox Faith, a division of Twentieth Century Fox, created to provide audiences with quality inspirational features, something of a recently opened Hollywood niche, prompted by the overwhelming success of "The Passion of the Christ." An important thing to keep in mind, though, is that these Fox Faith films are thankfully not "preachy." Their content is more balanced, with solid story lines exploring each character's mental and spiritual health and wellbeing.The plots revolved around discoveries in people's lives we can easily relate to, leading us to reflect on what values we hold dear. These films straddle the line tastefully, without overdoing pivotal moments in the story. They do a fine job of avoiding the pitfalls that could make them sappy.This film deals with the universal quest for finding real happiness. In today's world, the pursuit of happiness for many is the chase for wealth, yet many rich people also find happiness alluding.Red Stevens (Garner) is a billionaire who dies suddenly in a crash. Disturbingly, all of his descendants seem to be only concerned with what they might inherit from him, and as the wishes in his will are carried out, the family members barely receive anything.Along comes his grandson Jason (Fuller), a spoiled trust fund baby who hopes to cash in on some inheritance. But Jason's grandfather had other ideas planned for him.Jason is brought into the board room where a lone box rests on the table. Inside the box is a DVD with a special message from his grandfather who has set up a series of 12 gifts for him, leading up to the ultimate gift.The gifts lead to a chain of events that will stretch Jason to his limits. Starting with digging holes for fence posts down on a large ranch in Texas, his journey takes him as far away as Ecuador, teaching him the value of work, real friends, family, true love, laughter, dreams, gratitude, giving, and the importance of using each day to its fullest.These are things that Red Stevens could not teach his grandson in life. But with his passing, he offers him a chance to inherit the wealthiest of treasures, a sense of what really matters most in life.Many surprises wait along the way in this tender story, with solid, heartfelt performances. It is touching to see this self-centered boy start to rearrange his priorities, and connect not only with other people, but himself.This film is a rewarding treat that everyone should see.